Distribution device with incrementally added splitters

ABSTRACT

A fiber distribution system (10) includes a fiber distribution hub (20, 300); at least one fiber distribution terminal (30, 100); and a cable (40) wrapped around a spool (110) of the fiber distribution terminal (30, 100). The fiber distribution terminal (30, 100) includes a spool (110) and a management tray (120) that rotate together. A second connectorized end (40b) of the cable (40) is held at a fiber optic adapter (125) on the tray (120). After dispensing the first connectorized end (40a) to the hub (20), an optical splitter (70, 130, 140) can be mounted to the tray (120). The splitter (26, 70, 130, 140, 306) has output adapters at which patch cords (50) can be inserted to connect subscribers to the system. The fiber distribution hub can use the same format of splitters (26, 70, 130, 140, 306). Other distributed splitter systems are provided with splicing and/or adding of splitters as needed.

This application is a Continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/042,511, filed on 23 Jul. 2018, which is a Continuation of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 14/653,888, filed on 19 Jun. 2015, now U.S.Pat. No. 10,031,305, which is a National Stage Application ofPCT/EP2013/077292, filed on 19 Dec. 2013, which claims benefit of U.S.Provisional Ser. No. 61/739,461, filed on 19 Dec. 2012, U.S. ProvisionalSer. No. 61/840,832, filed on 28 Jun. 2013, U.S. Provisional Ser. No.61/883,320, filed on 27 Sep. 2013, and U.S. Provisional Ser. No.61/908,054, filed on 23 Nov. 2013 and which applications areincorporated herein by reference. To the extent appropriate, a claim ofpriority is made to each of the above disclosed applications.

BACKGROUND

As demand for telecommunications increases, fiber optic networks arebeing extended in more and more areas. In facilities such as multipledwelling units (MDU's), apartments, condominiums, businesses, etc.,fiber optic distribution terminals are used to provide subscriber accesspoints to the fiber optic network. Fiber optic distribution terminalsare often installed at separate floors of an MDU and are connected tothe fiber optic network through cables connected to a network hub. Thelength of cable needed between the fiber optic enclosure and the networkhub varies depending upon the location of the fiber optic enclosure withrespect to the network hub. As a result, there is a need for a fiberoptic enclosure that can effectively manage varying lengths of cable.Cables are also used to interconnect the subscriber access pointsprovided by the fiber distribution terminals with subscriber interfaceunits (e.g., Optical Network Terminals) provided at subscriber locations(e.g., at each residence of an MDU). With respect to such fiberdistribution systems, there is also a need for techniques to effectivelymanage excess cable length while also taking into consideration spaceconstraints.

SUMMARY

One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a fiber distributiondevice including a rotatable arrangement about which a length of fiberoptic cable is coiled. The fiber optic cable includes at least oneoptical fiber contained within a cable jacket. An optical splitter canbe added to the fiber distribution device subsequent to deployment ofthe fiber distribution device (e.g., when service is requested) from thefiber distribution device.

In some implementations, the optical splitter has a configuration thatenables subsequent installation of the splitter in the device.

In some implementations, the input of the optical splitter may includeeither an adapter port or a connector configured to be received at anadapter port.

Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a fiber distributionsystem including a fiber distribution hub and one or more fiberdistribution devices that can be installed at different locations withina building. Both the hub and the device can be initially deployedwithout splitters.

In certain implementations, the device can be deployed with no outputadapters at which subscriber patch cords can be connected to the device.

In certain implementations, the hub can be deployed with no outputadapters at which cables dispensed from the devices can be connected tothe hub.

Optical splitters having adapter output ports can be incrementallyinstalled at the hub and/or the devices.

In certain implementations, the output splitters of the hub and devicesare interchangeable with each other.

Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to an optical splittermodule including a splitter body, a splitter input region, and asplitter output region. The splitter body holds an optical splitter thatsplits signals received at the input region to the output region of themodule. The splitter output region includes two or more optical adaptershaving empty, outward-facing ports. The splitter input region of certaintypes of splitter modules includes one or more optical adapters havingan empty, outward-facing port. The splitter input region of other typesof splitter modules includes an optical connector.

In some examples, the input region is disposed at a notched region ofthe body so that a splitter input port or connector is inwardly recessedfrom the splitter output ports.

The optical splitter held within the splitter body can have any of avariety of ratios (e.g., 1:2, 1:4, 1:8, 1:16, 1:32, 1:64, etc.). Incertain examples, a first splitter module can have a first splitter bodyholding an optical splitter having a first split ratio (e.g., 1:4) and asecond splitter module can have a second splitter body holding anoptical splitter having a second split ratio (e.g., 1:8) wherein thefirst and second splitter bodies have the same dimensions. Somesplitters can be 2:4 or 2:8, with two inputs and 4 outputs or eightoutputs for each input.

In certain implementations, the output region of the first splittermodule has the same dimensions as the output region of the secondsplitter module.

In certain implementations, the splitter modules can include fiber opticconnector storage locations for extra and connector or connectors.

Another aspect of the disclosure relates to a fiber distribution hubincluding an enclosure, a plurality of fiber optic splitters mountedwithin the enclosure and a plurality of fanouts mounted to theenclosure. Each of the fanouts includes a splice region for splicingriser cables to connectorized pigtails that lead to outputs of the fiberoptic splitters, wherein inputs of the fiber optic splitters receivefibers spliced from a feeder cable entering the enclosure.

Another aspect of the disclosure relates to a fiber distribution hubincluding an enclosure, a plurality of fiber optic splitters mountedwithin the enclosure and a plurality of integrated splice and cabletermination devices mounted to the enclosure. Each of the splices is ona pivotally mounted tray includes a splice region for splicing cables toconnectorized pigtails that lead to inputs and/or outputs of the fiberoptic splitters.

Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a fiber distributiondevice including a length of fiber optic cable with a connectorized endmatable to an adapter for connecting to either a fiber optic connectorand a cable or a fiber optic splitter with a plurality of outputs. Anoptical splitter can be added to the fiber distribution devicesubsequent to deployment of the fiber distribution device (e.g., whenservice is requested) from the fiber distribution device. The opticalsplitter has a configuration that enables subsequent installation of thesplitter in the device. The input of the optical splitter may includeeither an adapter port or a connector configured to be received at anadapter port.

A variety of additional aspects will be set forth in the descriptionthat follows. These aspects can relate to individual features and tocombinations of features. It is to be understood that both the foregoinggeneral description and the following detailed description are exemplaryand explanatory only and are not restrictive of the broad concepts uponwhich the embodiments disclosed herein are based.

DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a schematic view of a fiber optic distribution system inaccordance with the principles of the present disclosure shownincorporated into a multi-dwelling unit;

FIG. 1B is a schematic view of the fiber optic distribution system ofFIG. 1A after the initial installation and prior to a service request;

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of an example fiber distributionterminal with a cover disposed in a closed position;

FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of the fiber distribution terminal ofFIG. 2 with the cover removed so that a rotatable arrangement isvisible;

FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of the fiber distribution terminal ofFIG. 3 with the rotatable arrangement exploded from a base;

FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of the fiber distribution terminal ofFIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of the fiber distribution terminal ofFIG. 3 with the rotatable arrangement assembled on the base;

FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of the fiber distribution terminal ofFIG. 3 with an example optical splitter exploded from the rotatablearrangement;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a first example splitter module suitablefor use as the optical splitter in FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a second example splitter modulesuitable for use as the optical splitter in FIG. 7;

FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of the fiber distribution terminalof FIG. 7 with the example optical splitter assembled to the rotatablearrangement;

FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of the fiber distribution terminalof FIG. 10 with patch cords plugged into adapter outputs of the opticalsplitter;

FIG. 12 is a front perspective view of another example fiberdistribution terminal shown empty and with a cover removed;

FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of the fiber distribution terminalof FIG. 12 shown with a riser cable routed therethrough and a splicepigtail shown partially routed through the terminal;

FIG. 14 is a front perspective view of the fiber distribution terminalof FIG. 13 shown with an optical splitter mounted thereto and subscriberpatch cords plugged into the outputs of the splitter;

FIG. 15 is a front perspective view of the fiber distribution terminalof FIG. 12 shown with a cover exploded out from a base of the fiberdistribution terminal;

FIG. 16 is a front perspective view of a fiber distribution hubincluding optical splitters;

FIG. 17 is a further front perspective view of the fiber distributionhub of FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view like FIG. 16, without the enclosure shown;

FIG. 19 is a view like FIG. 17, without the enclosure shown;

FIG. 20 is a view like FIG. 18, showing several splitter trays pivotedupwardly to access a lower tray;

FIG. 21 is a further perspective view showing the pivoted trays;

FIG. 22 shows the arrangement of FIG. 20, with the splitter traysremoved, and showing a splice tray;

FIG. 23 shows a further perspective view of the arrangement of FIG. 22;

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of one of the splitter trays, includingtwo optical splitters and showing output cables connected to each of theoptical splitters;

FIG. 25 is a top plan view of the splitter tray of FIG. 24;

FIG. 26 is a view of the splitter tray of FIG. 24, with the outputcables not shown;

FIG. 27 is a top plan view of the arrangement of FIG. 26;

FIG. 28 shows the splitter tray of FIG. 26, without the opticalsplitters shown;

FIG. 29 is a top plan view of the arrangement of FIG. 28;

FIG. 30 is a front perspective view of another fiber distribution hubincluding optical splitters;

FIG. 31 is a front perspective view of a fiber distribution hubincluding optical splitters and fanouts;

FIG. 32 illustrates the fiber distribution hub of FIG. 31 with the coverthereof removed to show the internal features;

FIG. 33 illustrates one of the fanouts of the hub of FIG. 31 inisolation;

FIG. 34 illustrates the fanout of FIG. 33 with the cover thereof removedto show the internal features thereof;

FIG. 35 is a front, right side perspective view of one of the opticalsplitters of the hub of FIG. 31;

FIG. 36 is a rear, left side perspective view of the optical splitter ofFIG. 35;

FIG. 37 illustrates the optical splitter of FIGS. 35-36 with the coverthereof removed to show the internal features thereof;

FIG. 38 is a front perspective view of another fiber distribution hubincluding optical splitters;

FIG. 39 shows the fiber distribution hub of FIG. 38, with a coverpartially removed;

FIG. 40 shows a basepart of the fiber distribution hub of FIG. 38;

FIG. 41 shows one splitter usable in the fiber distribution hub of FIG.39;

FIG. 42 shows another splitter usable in the fiber distribution hub ofFIG. 38;

FIG. 43 shows the basepart with splitter modules mounted to thebasepart;

FIG. 44 illustrates splicing of connectorized pigtails to a riser cablein a splice cassette;

FIG. 45 shows a splice tray with integrated cable termination;

FIG. 46 is another view of the splice tray with integrated cabletermination;

FIG. 47 shows the splice tray terminated to two different cables;

FIG. 48 is a top view of the splice tray of FIG. 47 terminated to twodifferent cables;

FIGS. 49A-49C show the splice cassette pivoting relative to the cabletermination bracket;

FIG. 50 shows the splice tray terminated to a cable and including astrength member termination;

FIG. 51 shows the basepart including splitters, and splice trays withintegrated cable terminations along with representative cables;

FIG. 52 shows the mounting of the splice trays and cable terminations tothe basepart;

FIG. 53 shows the various cables which can be connected to the hub, andthe pivoting movement of the splice cassettes to access a selectedsplice cassette;

FIG. 54 shows the internal components of the hub with representativecables;

FIG. 55 is a front view of the internal components of the hub of FIG.54;

FIG. 56 shows an alternative embodiment of a fiber distributionterminal;

FIG. 57 shows the fiber distribution terminal of FIG. 56 without theouter cover;

FIG. 58 shows the fiber distribution terminal of FIG. 57, without theinternal cover, and illustrating a single splice to a single outputcable from the riser cable, and a single output cable;

FIG. 59 shows the fiber distribution terminal of FIG. 56 including aplurality of outputs and including an internal splitter;

FIG. 60 shows a splitter module being mounted to the adapter to createmultiple outputs from a single splice from the riser cable;

FIG. 61 shows the splitter mounted to the base;

FIGS. 62-69 show various views of an alternative embodiment of a fiberdistribution terminal including a splitter which connects to an adapterwhich is connected to a connector spliced to the riser cable;

FIGS. 70 and 71 show a splitter module including connector storage forstorage of a connectorized cable.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to the exemplary aspects of thepresent disclosure that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings.Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughoutthe drawings to refer to the same or like structure.

Referring to FIG. 1A, an example fiber optic distribution system 10 inaccordance with the principles of the present disclosure is shown. Thefiber optic distribution system 10 is shown incorporated into abuilding, such as a multi-dwelling unit (MDU) 12, having multiple floors12 a, 12 b, 12 c and 12 d (i.e., multiple levels). The floor 12 a can bea basement. A riser 14 can run between the various floors 12 a-12 d.While depicted in an MDU, it will be appreciated that the fiberdistribution system 10 can be used in other types of buildings and othertypes of applications.

The fiber distribution system 10 is shown including a fiber distributionhub 20 installed at the floor 12 a (e.g., typically in the basement orlowest floor of the building). The fiber distribution hub 20 is shownreceiving at least one feed fiber 22 routed from a service provider 21(e.g., from a central office of a service provider). The fiberdistribution hub 20 can include a housing 24 that is capable ofreceiving one or more optical splitters 26. Each optical splitter 26 isconfigured to split optical signals supplied to the fiber distributionhub 20 by the feed fiber 22. In various implementations, an opticalsplitter mounted at the hub 20 can be a 1:2 splitter, a 1:4 splitter, a1:8 splitter, a 1:16 splitter, a 1:32 splitter, and/or a 1:64 splitter.Outputs of the optical splitter 26 can be optically connected to opticalfibers routed to the various floors 12 b-12 d of the building.

The optical splitters 26 can be incrementally installed at the hub 20 asservice is needed. For example, the hub 20 may initially be devoid ofsplitters 26. When one or more subscribers request service, one or moresplitters 26 may be installed at the hub 20. In some implementations,the splitters 26 have output pigtails extending therefrom that canconnect at adapters to the optical fibers routed to the floors 12 b-12d. In other implementations, the splitters 26 have output adaptersconfigured to receive connectorized ends of the optical fibers routed tothe various floors 12 b-12 d or intermediate fibers. The splitter inputalso may include a connectorized pigtail, an unconnectorized pigtail, oran adapter. The housing 24 can also enclose various structures formaking optical connections between optical fibers of optical cables. Forexample, the housing can include a plurality of fiber optic adapters forconnecting fiber optic connectors, splice trays for protecting opticalsplices between optical fibers, or other types of structures.

The fiber distribution system 10 is shown including fiber distributionterminals 30 at each of the upper floors 12 b-12 d. Fiber optic cables40 interconnect the fiber distribution hub 20 and the fiber distributionterminals 30. The fiber optic cables 40 can each include one or moreoptical fibers contained within a protective jacket. The optical fibersof the fiber optic cables 40 can be optically coupled to the feed fiber22 through the optical splitter 26 at the hub 20. At the fiberdistribution terminals 30, the fiber optic cables 40 can be opticallycoupled to patch cords 50, which can be routed (e.g., horizontally alongthe floor) to optical network terminals (ONT's) 60 or other types ofinterface devices (e.g., an interface box, an interface panel, etc.)corresponding to different subscriber locations (e.g., apartments,residences, offices, condominiums, etc.) on each floor 12 a-12 d. An ONT60 is an active device that converts optical signals from the serviceprovider to electrical signals used at the subscriber locations.

If the fiber optic cables 40 contain single optical fibers, then opticalsplitters 70 can be provided in each of the fiber distribution terminals30 for splitting signals carried by the optical fibers of the fiberoptic cables 40. The patch cords 50 are optically coupled to thesplitters 70 to carry the split signals to the ONT's 60. In someimplementations, the optical splitters 70 splits the signals toconnectorized pigtails housed within the fiber distribution terminals30, which are routed to adapters mounted within the fiber distributionterminals 30. In other implementations, the optical splitters 70 haveoutput adapter ports at which the patch cords 50 can be inserted toreceive the split signals. In certain implementations, the opticalsplitters 70 can provide a split ratio of at least 1:4. In one example,the optical splitters 70 can provide a split ratio of 1:8. In anotherexample, the optical splitters 70 can provide a split ratio of 1:4. Inanother example, the optical splitters 70 can provide a split ratio of1:16.

The patch cords 50 can include first and second connectorized ends 50 a,50 b. In some implementations, the first connectorized ends 50 a areoptically connected to the connectorized pigtails within the fiberdistribution terminals 30 by fiber optic adapters within the fiberdistribution terminals 30. In other implementations, the firstconnectorized ends 50 a are optically connected to splitter outputadapters within the fiber distribution terminals 30. The secondconnectorized ends 50 b of the patch cords 50 can be coupled to theONT's 60.

In other examples, the fiber optic cables 40 can each include aplurality of optical fibers that are optically connected to the feedfiber 22. For such examples, the fiber distribution terminals 30 caninclude fan-out devices (e.g., fan-out modules) that separate theoptical fibers of the fiber optic cables 40 routed to each fiberdistribution terminal 30 into a plurality of connectorized pigtails thatcan be optically connected to subscriber locations via patch cords 50 asdescribed above. The ends of the fiber optic cables 40 that interfacewith the fiber distribution hub 20 can be terminated with multi-fiberfiber optical connectors. In this type of example, all of the opticalsplitting of the building can be accomplished at the fiber distributionhub 20. In contrast, the previous example uses a distributed opticalsplitting strategy where optical splitting can occur at the fiberdistribution hub 20 and/or at each floor 12 b-12 d.

In some implementations, all of the components of the fiber distributionsystem 10 are installed within the MDU 12 simultaneously. In otherimplementations, however, some of the components are initially installedand other components are installed only after those components areneeded for service. For example, FIG. 1B shows the fiber distributionsystem 10 after an initial installation but prior to a service requestfrom any of the floors 12 b-12 d in accordance with someimplementations. The fiber optic cables 40 are routed from the fiberdistribution terminals 30 to the hub 20. However, none of the fiberdistribution terminals 30 include optical splitters 70 and no patchcords 50 have been installed. When service is requested by one of theONT's 60, a splitter 70 can be installed at the corresponding fiberdistribution terminal 30 and a patch cord 50 can be routed between thesplitter 70 and the ONT 60.

FIGS. 2-11 show an example fiber distribution terminal 100 that is oneexample of a configuration for the fiber distribution terminals 30 ofFIG. 1A. The fiber distribution terminal 100 includes a housing 101having a base 102 and a front cover 104. The front cover 104 is movable(e.g., pivotally moveable) relative to the base 102 between an openposition and a closed position (see FIG. 2). In certain implementations,the front cover 104 is removable from the base 102. The fiberdistribution terminal 100 also includes a rotatable arrangement 106positioned within housing 101. The rotatable arrangement 106 can rotaterelative to the housing 101 about an axis of rotation 108 (FIG. 4). Therotatable arrangement 106 can be rotatably mounted on a spindle 109coupled to the base 102 and aligned along the axis of rotation 108 (SeeFIG. 5).

Referring to FIGS. 3-5, the rotatable arrangement 106 includes a spool110 and a management tray 120 that rotate unitarily with each other. Thespool 110 includes a drum portion 112 about which the fiber optic cable40 is coiled. The spool 110 also includes a flange 114 that retains thecable 40 on the spool 110. The spool 110 includes a second flange spacedfrom the first flange 114 along the axis of rotation 108. In someimplementations, the second flange forms a management tray 120 at whichthe cable 40 is coupled to the patch cords 50. In one example, the fiberoptic cable 40 can include a single optical fiber and can include afirst end 40 a (FIG. 3) that is connectorized by a single fiber opticalconnector (e.g., an SC connector, an LC connector, etc.). The first end40 a of the fiber optic cable 40 can be routed to the fiber distributionhub 20 for connection to the feed fiber 22 as described above.

The fiber management tray 120 includes a base 121 extending generallyparallel with the flange 114. The base 121 defines an aperture 122through which a second end 40 b of the fiber optic cable 40 can berouted to an opposite side of the base 121 from the spool 110. Incertain implementations, a bend radius limiter extends rearwardly fromthe base 121 at the aperture 122 to inhibit excessive bending of thecable 40 when the cable 40 transitions through the aperture 122. Thebase 121 also defines a channel 123 or other structures for providingfiber bend radius protection for routing the second end 40 b of thecable 40 to a holding location 124 on the management tray 120. In someimplementations, the cable second end 40 b is connectorized by a singlefiber optical connector (e.g., an SC connector, an LC connector, etc.).In such implementations, an adapter 125 can be disposed at the holdinglocation 124 and the connectorized end 40 b can be inserted into oneport of the adapter 125 (see FIG. 3).

To deploy the fiber distribution terminal 100, the terminal 100 ispositioned at the desired floor 12 b-12 d and the fiber optic cable 40is paid off from the spool 110 by pulling on the first end 40 a of thefiber optic cable 40. The first end 40 a of the fiber optic cable 40 ispulled down the riser 14 to the fiber distribution hub 20. As the fiberoptic cable 40 is paid off from the spool 110, the rotatable arrangement106 rotates relative to the housing 101 about the axis of rotation 108defined by the spindle 109. The management tray 120, the adapter 125,and the second end 40 b of the cable 40 are carried with the rotatablearrangement 106 and rotate in unison with (i.e., in concert with) therotatable arrangement 106 about the axis of rotation 108 as the fiberoptic cable 40 is paid off from the rotatable arrangement 106 (see FIG.6).

After the cable 40 has been connected to the fiber distribution hub 20,the second end 40 b of the cable 40 remains at the adapter 125 awaitinga subscriber on the relevant floor 12 b-12 d to request service. Incertain implementations, the rotatable arrangement 106 can berotationally locked in position when the cable is dispensed. Upon arequest for service, an optical splitter 70 can be installed on themanagement tray 120 (see FIG. 7). The optical splitter 70 includes abody/housing 71 having at least one input region 72 and at least oneoutput region 74. The optical splitter body 71 also defines a connectioninterface 75 that mounts the splitter body 71 to the base 121 of thetray 120. For example, the connection interface 75 may couple to amounting interface 126 (e.g., latches, snaps, dove tail, etc.) on thetray 120 (see FIG. 5). In certain implementations, the terminal 100includes surrounding structure that holds the splitter body 71 inposition.

FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate example implementations of optical splitters130, 140, respectively, that are examples of configurations for theoptical splitters 70 of FIG. 7. Each of the optical splitters 130, 140has a common peripheral profile despite having a different number ofoutput ports. Accordingly, either of the optical splitters 130, 140 canfit into the same space within a terminal 30, hub 20, or otherenclosure. In the example shown, the input port of the optical splitter130, 140 is disposed at a common side with the output ports. In otherimplementations, however, the input port can be disposed at a differentside of the splitter 130, 140 from the output ports. In certainimplementations, the optical splitters 130, 140 can include multipleinput ports.

As shown in FIG. 8, the example optical splitter module 130 has asplitter body/housing 131 defining an input region 132 and an outputregion 134. In the example shown, the input region 132 includes anadapter defining an empty port at which the connectorized end 40 a ofthe cable 40 can be received. For example, the connectorized end 40 acan be stored at a fixed location within the distribution terminal 100so that mounting the splitter 130 to the terminal 100 causes theconnectorized end 40 a to enter the adapter. The opposite end of theadapter receives a connectorized end of an internal fiber leading to anoptical splitter within the housing 131. In other implementations, theinput region 132 may include the connectorized end of an internal fiberleading to the optical splitter within the housing 131 (see FIG. 9). Inthe example shown, the output region 134 includes multiple adapteroutput ports 135 at which first ends 50 a of the patch cords 50 can bereceived. In the example shown, the output region 134 includes fouradapter output ports 135.

As shown in FIG. 9, the example optical splitter module 140 has asplitter body/housing 141 defining an input region 142 and an outputregion 144. In the example shown, the input region 142 includes aconnectorized end 143 of an internal fiber leading to an opticalsplitter within the housing 141. The connectorized end 143 is configuredto be received at the adapter 125 when the splitter module 140 isinstalled at the tray 120 (see FIG. 10). In other implementations, theinput region 142 may include an adapter defining an empty outward-facingport, such as that shown in FIG. 8. In the example shown, the outputregion 144 includes multiple adapter ports 145 at which first ends 50 aof the patch cords 50 can be received. In the example shown, the outputregion 144 includes eight adapter output ports 145.

In some implementations, the splitter body 131 of the splitter module130 has the same dimensions as the splitter body 141 of the splittermodule 140. In certain implementations, the output region 134 of thesplitter module 130 has the same dimensions as the output region 144 ofthe splitter module 140 (e.g., compare FIGS. 8 and 9). In some suchimplementations, the adapter ports of the output region 134accommodating fewer output paths are more spaced apart than the adapterports of the output region 144 accommodating more output paths. In somesuch implementations, the adapter ports of the output region 134accommodating fewer output paths can include SC-type adapters and theadapter ports of the output region 144 accommodating more output pathscan include LC-type adapters, LX.5-type adapters, or other such highdensity adapters.

Installing the optical splitter modules 70, 130, 140 only when serviceis needed reduces the initial installation cost of the network.Furthermore, locating the adapters 135, 145 on the splitters 70, 130,140 further reduces the initial installation cost of the network byreducing the number of components that must be installed at the fiberdistribution terminals 100 before service is requested. In addition, theoptical splitter modules 70, 130, 140 described above also can beinstalled at the fiber distribution hub 20 as the optical splitters 26.For example, the optical splitters 70, 130, 140 of the fiberdistribution terminals 100 can be interchangeable with the splitters 26at the fiber distribution hub 20.

As shown in FIG. 11, the patch cords 50 can be used to connect the ONT's60 to the fiber distribution terminal 100. For example, the first ends50 a of the patch cords 50 can be inserted into the output ports 135,145 of the splitter module 70, 130, 140 as needed. For example, thepatch cords 50 can be routed onto the tray 120 through ports 127 (seeFIG. 5). A gasket or other sealing member can be provided at the ports127 to weather-proof the interior of the fiber distribution terminal100. After deployment of the fiber distribution terminal 100, anyremaining unused length of the fiber optic cable 40 can remain coiled onthe drum portion of the rotatable arrangement 106 for storage within thehousing 101 of the fiber distribution terminal 100.

FIGS. 12-15 illustrate an alternative type of fiber distributionterminal 200 for use in a fiber distribution system in which a singlecable or cable assembly 90 is routed from the hub 20 to the terminals200 on each floor 12 b-12 d. The example terminal 200 does not include arotatable cable storage spool.

Rather, the terminal 200 includes a base 202 defining a channel 203through which the cable assembly 90 can be routed. The channel 203defines a breakout region 201 at which an optical fiber of the cableassembly 90 can be accessed and pulled into the base 202. The breakoutregion 201 leads to a routing passage 206 that provides slack storagearound a spool or bend radius limiter 207. A splicing passage 208 leadsfrom the routing passage 206 to one or more optical splice holders 209.A pigtail passage 205 also connects to the routing passage 206 and/or tothe splicing passage 208. The pigtail passage 205 extends to a holdinglocation 224 that is configured to hold an optical adapter 225 (FIG.13).

As shown in FIG. 13, the cable assembly 90, which is routed through theMDU 12 along a riser or other ducting, is disposed within the basechannel 203. An optical adapter 225 is mounted to the holding location224. A connectorized end 94 of a splice pigtail 92 is plugged into oneport of the optical adapter 225. The remaining length of the splicepigtail 92 is routed through the pigtail passage 205 to the splicingpassage 208. In certain implementations, excess length of the splicepigtail 92 can be stored in the routing passage 206 before theunconnectorized end of the splice pigtail 92 is routed to the splicingpassage 208. An optical fiber can be broken out from the cable assembly90, routed through the breakout region 201, along the routing passage206, to the splicing passage 208. The optical fiber of the cableassembly 90 can be spliced (e.g., mechanical splice, fusion splice,etc.) to the splice pigtail 92 and stored at one of the splice holders209. Thereby, optical signals are carried from the hub 20, along thefiber of the cable assembly 90, along the splice pigtail 92, to thesecond port of the optical adapter 225.

As shown in FIG. 14, an optical splitter 70 can be mounted to the base202 of the terminal 200. Any of the optical splitters 70, 130, 140described herein are suitable for mounting to the base 202. The inputconnector 73 of the splitter 70 plugs into the second port of theadapter 225 to receive the optical signals from the hub 20. One or morepatch cords 50 can be plugged into the output ports at the splitteroutput region 74 to carry the split optical signals to the ONTs 60. Asshown in FIG. 15, a cover 204 can be mounted to the base 202 beforeand/or after the splitter 70 is mounted to the terminal 200. The cover204 provides protection to the splitter 70, fibers, and connectionscontained within the terminal 200.

Referring now to FIGS. 16-29, a fiber distribution hub 300 is shownhaving an enclosure 302 and a door 304, which hingedly mounts toenclosure 302. A fiber feed 22 enters fiber distribution hub 300 forconnection to optical splitters 306. Outputs from the optical splitters306 are shown as fiber optic cables 40, which route to one or more fiberdistribution devices that are installed at different locations within abuilding. For example, fiber distribution hub 300 can be located in abasement. Fibers from fiber feed 22 can be spliced at splice tray 308 tosplitter inputs 310, which lead to each splitter tray 312. Each splittertray 312 holds one or more splitters 306 with a mounting device like thetype noted above for terminals 100, 200. Splitters 306 in the exampleinclude one input 328 and eight outputs 330. Splitters 306 areconstructed in a similar manner as previously described opticalsplitters 70, 130, 140. Splitter 306 is interchangeable with splitters70, 130, 140.

Splice tray 308 and splitter trays 312 are mounted to a backing plate316. Splitter trays 312 are pivotally mounted so as to permit access toa desired splitter tray in the stack of splitter trays 312. The pivotingsplitter trays 312 can also allow access to splice tray 308 as desired.Each splitter tray 312 holds two optical splitters 306 and therespective splitter inputs 328.

As shown, each splitter tray 312 includes cable routing for routing ofthe splitter inputs 328, which are outputs from the splice tray in oneexample. The routing pathways 320 extend around a perimeter of splittertray 312. Cable routing 320 can include cable management troughs 322,fingers 324 and rings 326. Splice tray 308 includes a fiber input 332and a fiber output 334. Splice tray 308 opens up and allows internalstorage of the fiber splice.

Fiber distribution hubs 20, 300 are shown as centralized hubs for feedfiber 22. In some cases, feed fiber 22 can be split out to multiple hubsso as to distribute the splitting and splicing functions among multiplehubs 20, 300. In either case, splitters 70, 130, 140, 306, can be usedthroughout the system, in the hubs and in the local devices.

FIG. 30 illustrates another fiber distribution hub 400 similar to thehub 300 illustrated in FIGS. 16-29. The fiber distribution hub 400includes an enclosure 402 and is shown without a cover to illustrate theinternal features thereof In the fiber distribution hub 400, the opticalsplitters 406 are oriented in a horizontally stacked arrangementadjacent the bottom 401 of the enclosure 402. The optical splitters 406are arranged in a direction from a front 403 of the hub 400 toward aback 405 of the hub 400. As in the hub 300 of FIGS. 16-29, the opticalsplitters 406 are configured to receive an input signal from a fiberfeed 22 that enters fiber distribution hub 400. In the example of thehub 400, fiber feeds 22 enter from sides 407, 409 of the enclosure 402and fibers from the fiber feed 22 are spliced to splitter inputs 410 ata splice region 408 within the enclosure 402. Outputs from the opticalsplitters 406 are shown as fiber optic cables 40, which exit theenclosure from a top 411 and route to one or more fiber distributiondevices that are installed at different locations within a building. Forexample, as in hub 300, hub 400 can be located in a basement. Each ofthe splitters 406 may be mounted to the enclosure 402 with a mountingdevice like the type noted above for terminals 100, 200, and 300.Splitters 406 in the example include one input 410 and eight outputs430. Splitters 406 are constructed in a similar manner as previouslydescribed optical splitters 70, 130, 140, and 306. Splitter 406 isinterchangeable with splitters 70, 130, 140, and 306.

Referring now to FIGS. 31-37, another fiber distribution hub 500 similarto the hub 400 illustrated in FIG. 30 is shown. The fiber distributionhub 500 includes an enclosure 502 for housing fiber optic splitters 506in a manner similar to the arrangement shown in FIG. 30. In FIG. 32, theenclosure 502 is shown without a cover 504 to illustrate the splitters506 located within the enclosure 502. In the fiber distribution hub 500,in addition to the splitters 506, a plurality of fanouts 580 are locatedabove the enclosure 502. The fanouts 580 are oriented in a stackedarrangement similar to the splitters 506 therebelow in a direction fromthe front 503 of the hub 500 toward the back 505 of the hub 500. As inthe hub 400 of FIG. 30, fiber feed 22 enters fiber distribution hub 500for connection to the optical splitters 506. Similar to the hub 400 ofFIG. 30, the fiber feed 22 enters from the sides 507, 509 of theenclosure 502 and fibers from the fiber feed 22 are spliced to splitterinputs 510 at a splice region 508 within the enclosure 502. However, incontrast to the arrangement shown in FIG. 30, the riser cables 40 arespliced into pigtails at the fanouts 580 located above the enclosure502. The connectorized pigtails then lead to the outputs 530 of thesplitters 506. In this manner, the riser cables 40 do not have to bepreterminated with connectors, which can often lead to issues inproviding the correct length for the individual cables.

The fanouts 580 are shown in isolation in FIGS. 33 and 34. Each fanout580 includes a riser cable port 582 at a top 581 of the fanout 580 and apigtail port 584 at a bottom 583 of the fanout 580. A splice region 585is provided within the fanout 580 as well as a cable management spool587 for managing fibers within the fanout 580 without violating minimumbend radius requirements.

The splitters 506 are shown in isolation in FIGS. 35-37. The splitter506 is shown in FIG. 37 without a cover 511 thereof for illustrating theinternal structure thereof. In the depicted example of the hub 500, thesplitters 506 are 1×16 splitters. As in the earlier describedembodiments, each splitter 506 may be mounted to the enclosure 502 witha mounting device like the type noted above. Splitters 506 areconstructed in a similar manner as previously described opticalsplitters 70, 130, 140, 306, and 406. Splitter 506 is interchangeablewith splitters 70, 130, 140, 306, and 406.

Referring now to FIGS. 38-55, another fiber distribution hub 600 isshown. The fiber distribution hub includes an enclosure 602 including abasepart 604 and a cover 606. In the illustrated embodiment, cablesenter and exit from the sides of hub 600. Basepart 606 includes a firstmajor side 650, a second major side 652 generally parallel to firstmajor side 650, a first minor side 654, and a second minor side 656oppositely disposed to first minor side 654. First minor side 654 andsecond minor side 656 extend generally perpendicularly between firstmajor side 650 and second major side 652. Basepart 604 includes asplitter area 608 on each side of basepart 604, a cable management area610 adjacent each splitter area, and a central channel 612. Centralchannel 612 communicates with upper cable termination and splice trayarea 614. Basepart 604 can be wall mounted if desired.

As shown in FIGS. 41 and 42, first example splitter 616 includes aninput 618 and a plurality of outputs 620 in the form of adapters. Firstsplitter 616 mounts with flanges 622 to basepart 604. A second splitter624 includes two inputs 618 and a plurality of outputs 620 in the formof adapters. First splitter 616 is a 1×16 splitter. Second splitter 624is a 2×1×8 splitter. FIG. 43 shows a plurality of second splitters 624mounted to basepart 604.

FIG. 44 illustrates a riser cable which can be spliced to pigtails forconnection to the splitter outputs 620 of hub 600. The riser cable canalso be provided with connectorized pigtails without the need for asplice or splice cassette.

In FIGS. 45 through 55, a splice tray with integrated cable termination626 is shown. Splice tray 626 includes a cable termination bracket 628and a pivotally mounted splice cassette 630 for holding cable andsplices. Cables entering and exiting splice tray 626 are terminated oncable termination bracket 628. For example, a riser cable 638 or afeeder cable 634 is connected at an outside portion of cable terminationbracket 628. In the example shown, an opposite end of cable terminationbracket 628 is connected to connectorized pigtails 636, 640.

FIGS. 49A-C show pivoting movement of splice cassette 630 relative tocable termination bracket 628.

A strength member termination device 632 can be used with cabletermination bracket 628 to terminate certain cables, such as feedercables or riser cables.

FIG. 51 illustrates the cable routing from feeder cable 634 to pigtails636 which are used as inputs to splitters 616, 626. Splicing of thefeeder cables to the pigtails occurs on splice cassette 630. Risercables 638 can also be provided as part of hub 600 for connecting topigtails (spliced on) which are connected to the outputs of thesplitters 616, 624.

Referring now to FIG. 52, splice tray 626 is shown being mounted tobasepart 604 with fasteners wherein the cables 634, 636, 638, 640 arepositioned in a recess 644.

Referring now to FIG. 53, several of the splice cassettes 630 are shownpivoted upwardly to allow for access to a selected lower splice cassette630. FIG. 53 also illustrates the feeder cable 634 which is an input toone or more of the splitters, and the output riser cables 638. Each ofthe feeder cable 634 and the riser cables 634 are spliced toconnectorized pigtails which are connected through splitters 616, 624 asinputs, and outputs, respectively. In a further example, an externaldrop cable 646 can be provided for connection to one or more splitters616, 624 as desired.

As shown in FIGS. 56-69, a fiber distribution terminal 700 includes abase 702, and an external cover 704. An internal cover 706 is positionedover a cable area 708 which covers a splice 710 and cable 711 from risercable 709. A connector 712 extends from splice 710 and mates withadapter 714. Output connector 715 with cable connects to connector 712to provide service to a single customer or outlet.

If additional customers or outlets are in need of service, a splitter716 can be used instead of output connector 715. Splitter 716 includes aplurality of outputs 718 each with an output adapter 717 matable to anoutput connector 715 with cable.

A splitter input connector 720′ is illustrated in the modified versionof fiber distribution terminal 700′ shown in FIGS. 62-69. Similar partsare noted with an apostrophe in FIGS. 62-69 relative to FIGS. 56-61. Thesplitter input connector 720 is on the rear of splitter 716 and notvisible in FIGS. 56-61. Splitter 716 mounts with a sliding motion in theillustrated examples. Splitter 716 can be easily added afterinstallation of terminal 700, when single service is no longer needed,and additional outputs are desired for servicing multiple customers ormultiple units/outlets.

The splitter 716′ of FIGS. 62-69 includes a base 740, a front cover 742,and an intermediate tray 744. Tray 744 holds output connector 720′ andoutput adapters 717′.

Various features of splitters 716, 716′ are noted. As shown thesplitter-outputs are adapters, and the splitter-input is a connector.

The splitter output and splitter input are in the opposite direction inone implementation.

The input-adapter is placed in the base (not in splitter) to be able toadd a single customer pigtail, if desired.

The splitter output is facing downwards, and the splitter-input isupwards in one implementation.

The pigtail for a single customer (in case of no splitter) is leavingthe box at the bottom (same exit-direction as for pigtail exit in caseof a splitter) in one implementation.

The splitter output adapters are placed generally in the center of thesplitter module, in one implementation

The splitter input connector is placed generally in the middle of themodule but in a different height level; underneath the splitter outadapters in one implementation.

The output adapters of the splitter are placed vertically to keep thewidth small in one implementation.

The input connector is placed horizontally to keep height small in oneimplementation.

The pigtail boots clicked in the splitter out adapter (splitter out) arewithin the splitter footprint in one implementation.

The splitter has side bend-protection for the pigtail attached in thesplitter adapter out ports in one implementation.

In one implementation, the width of the splitter is around 90 mm, thelength is around 120 mm.

The adapters can be provided at a slight angle for extra access by theuser in one implementation.

A sealing foam strip can be added to the splitter to close the pigtailopening between splitter and outer cover which can be added over thesplitter like cover 704 in one implementation.

A fixating screw can be added to fix the splitter to the base; with thescrew direction is aligned with the feeder-adapter mating direction inone implementation.

Referring now to FIGS. 70 and 71, splitter 816 includes inputs 818 inthe form of adapters, and splitter outputs 820 in the form of adapters.Splitter 816 also includes one or more connector storage locations 840.Two locations 840 are shown for splitter 816. Each location 840 canstore a connector 842 for later use as an output connector for outputs820. Such a situation can occur if the connector or cable in one ofoutputs 820 becomes damaged. Connector 842 can be used to change out thedamaged connector/cable and provide a ready to use back up signal path.Location 840 stores an end of connector 842 in a protective manner andalso keeps it organized for a future deployment. Connector 842 is anextra pigtail of the riser cable in one example.

In one implementation, location 840 is located close to the centralchannel of the hub.

With the above systems, splitters can be mounted in a hub and/or in anMDU or floor box as desired. Various of the systems provide flexibilityfor adding splitters as needed after initial installation of the system.Various of the systems utilize splicing for adding pigtails to cableswhich are not preconnectorized. However, the above systems can be usedwith preconnectorized cables, in the case of feeder, riser, or other.

Various modifications and alterations of this disclosure will becomeapparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scopeand spirit of this disclosure, and it should be understood that thescope of this disclosure is not to be unduly limited to the illustrativeexamples set forth herein.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS AND CORRESPONDING FEATURES

-   10 fiber optic distribution system-   12 multi-dwelling unit-   12 a-12 d floors-   14 a riser-   20 fiber distribution hub-   21 a service provider-   22 feed fiber-   24 a housing-   26 optical splitters-   30 fiber distribution terminals-   40 fiber optic cables-   40 a, 40 b first and second ends-   50 patch cords-   50 a, 50 b first and second connectorized ends-   60 optical network terminals-   70 optical splitter-   71 splitter body-   72 input region-   74 output region-   75 connection interface-   90 cable assembly-   92 splice pigtail-   94 connectorized end-   100 fiber distribution terminal-   101 a housing-   102 a base-   104 a front cover-   106 rotatable arrangement-   108 axis of rotation-   109 spindle-   110 spool-   112 drum portion-   114 flange-   120 management tray-   121 base-   122 aperture-   123 channel-   124 holding location-   125 adapter-   126 mounting interface-   127 ports-   130 optical splitter module-   131 splitter body-   132 input region-   134 output region-   135 adapter output port-   140 optical splitter module-   141 splitter body-   142 input region-   143 connectorized end-   144 output region-   145 adapter output port-   200 alternative fiber distribution terminal-   201 breakout region-   202 base-   203 channel-   204 cover-   205 pigtail passage-   206 routing passage-   207 spool-   208 splice passage-   209 splice holder-   224 holding location-   225 optical adapter-   300 fiber distribution hub-   302 enclosure-   304 door-   306 optical splitter-   308 splice tray-   310 splitter inputs-   312 splitter tray-   316 backing plate-   320 cable routings-   322 troughs-   324 fingers-   326 rings-   328 input to splitter-   330 outputs from splitter-   332 fiber input-   334 fiber output-   400 fiber distribution hub-   401 bottom-   402 enclosure-   403 front-   405 back-   406 splitter-   407 side-   408 splice region-   409 side-   410 splitter input-   411 top-   430 splitter output-   500 fiber distribution hub-   502 enclosure-   503 front-   504 cover-   505 back-   506 splitter-   507 side-   508 splice region-   509 side-   510 splitter input-   530 splitter output-   580 fanout-   581 top-   582 riser cable port-   583 bottom-   584 pigtail port-   585 splice region-   587 cable management spool-   600 fiber distribution hub-   602 enclosure-   604 base part-   606 cover-   608 splitter area-   610 cable management area-   612 central channel-   614 cable termination and splice tray area-   616 first splitter-   618 input-   620 outputs-   622 flanges-   624 second splitter-   626 splice tray-   628 cable termination bracket-   630 splice cassette-   632 strength member termination device-   634 feeder cable-   636 pigtails-   638 riser cable-   640 pigtails-   642 fasteners-   644 recess-   646 external drop cable-   700 fiber distribution terminal-   700′ modified fiber distribution terminal-   702 base-   704 external cover-   706 internal cover-   708 cable area-   709 riser-   710 splice-   711 cable-   712 connector-   714 adapter-   715 output connector-   716 splitter-   717 output adapter-   718 outputs-   720 splitter input connector-   740 base-   742 front cover-   744 intermediate tray-   816 splitter-   818 input to splitter-   820 outputs from splitter-   840 connector storage location-   842 connector

1-28. (canceled)
 29. A fiber distribution hub comprising: an enclosureincluding a door for accessing an interior of enclosure; a plurality ofpivotally mounted splitter trays; a plurality of splitters mounted tothe plurality of pivotally mounted splitter trays splice trays.
 30. Thefiber distribution hub of claim 29, further comprising a splice tray,wherein the splice tray is mounted in a stack with the plurality ofpivotally mounted splitter trays. 31-34. (canceled)
 35. A fiberdistribution hub comprising: an enclosure; a plurality of fiber opticsplitters mounted within the enclosure; a plurality of fanouts mountedto the enclosure, wherein each of the plurality of fanouts includes asplice region for splicing riser cables to connectorized pigtails thatlead to outputs of the plurality of fiber optic splitters, whereininputs of the plurality of fiber optic receive fibers spliced from afeeder cable entering the enclosure.
 36. The fiber distribution hub ofclaim 35, wherein the plurality of fiber optic splitters are provided ina stacked arrangement extending from a front of the enclosure toward arear of the enclosure.
 37. The fiber distribution hub of claim 35,wherein the plurality of fanouts are mounted above the plurality offiber optic splitters and provided in a stacked arrangement extendingalong a direction from a front of the enclosure toward a rear of theenclosure.
 38. The fiber distribution hub of claim 35, wherein theplurality of fiber optic splitters each include one input and sixteenoutputs.